Evidence supporting the use of: Valerian root
For the health condition: Addictions (drugs)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, primarily for its calming and sedative effects. While it is most commonly used for insomnia and anxiety, there are traditional reports and some anecdotal evidence suggesting its use to ease symptoms associated with drug withdrawal, particularly for substances that cause anxiety, agitation, or sleep disturbances during withdrawal (such as benzodiazepines or opioids). The rationale is that valerian may help alleviate these symptoms, thus providing support during the withdrawal process. However, rigorous clinical studies specifically examining valerian root's effectiveness in treating addiction or supporting withdrawal from drugs are extremely limited. Most available scientific studies focus on its sedative and anxiolytic properties rather than direct effects on addiction or withdrawal syndromes. As such, its use for drug addiction is based more on traditional use and extrapolation from its known effects on anxiety and sleep, rather than robust scientific validation. Therefore, the evidence supporting valerian root as a treatment or supportive agent for drug addiction is quite limited, and health professionals generally do not recommend it as a primary therapy for addiction.

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